The E.W. Scripps Company (SSP) 18th Annual Sports & Media Symposium summary

Company overview and transformation

• Operates over 60 TV stations in 40+ markets, reaching 38% of U.S. TV households, and owns national networks like ION and Scripps News.

• Holds the largest broadcast spectrum in the U.S. and leverages it for both local and national reach, including sports broadcasting.

• Underwent significant transformation, shifting focus from legacy media to television and digital properties.

• Launched a transformation plan in February aiming to improve EBITDA by $125–$150 million (about 30%) by 2028.

• Transformation includes consolidation, technology adoption, and a refounding strategy to maximize reach and efficiency.

Technology and operational efficiency

• Emphasizes AI and automation in both front and back office, focusing resources on journalism and advertising sales.

• Streamlined front office functions to prioritize customer-facing roles, enabling cost savings and improved customer focus.

• Technology-driven changes are expected to generate significant savings and enhance news delivery.

Regulatory and industry landscape

• Expects regulatory changes to allow ownership of two Big Four stations in a market, enhancing market depth.

• Recent acquisitions and swaps, such as in Lexington, leverage regulatory flexibility and spectrum assets.

• Sees opportunity in further consolidation and M&A, but prioritizes governance and shareholder value in potential deals.